Croatia Gulet Charter
Croatia's long, island-studded Dalmatian coast offers some of Europe's most sublime sailing, perfect for a gulet cruise, which may just be the best way to enjoy a Luxury Yacht charter.
What Is A Gulet?
Gulets have become an increasingly popular way to explore Croatia. Already famous across Turkey, their popularity is only accelerating, 45 of the 66 gulets currently operating in Croatia have been built in the last 20 years, with 20 built in the last 5 years alone.
Cruising gulets are a unique boat type - these sublime vessels combine the best features of a sailing yacht, a catamaran and a motor yacht into a single motor sailer, with powerful engines and great sailing capabilities.
Luxury gulets come with a full crew of captain, chef, stewards and deckhands, and usually offer half or full-board dining options. You have the option of a cabin charter or a full Croatia gulet yacht charter.
Why Choose Croatia for Your Gulet Charter
Cruise Croatia's Adriatic Sea, replete with walled cities and stunning old towns, where sublime cuisine is served atop old cobbled streets.
There's a wealth of gulets and sailing yachts available for your sailing holiday, whether you choose to set sail from the iconic old town walls of Dubrovnik for a tour of the Dubrovnik riviera, or the striking Kornati Archipelago for an enthralling off-grid exploration of its 140+ protected islands and reefs.
A luxury gulet charter in Croatia provides sailors of all abilities with enviable access to the country's stunning coast and islands. From lost-in-time villages coloured by orange-roofed townhouses and lively cities like Pula and Split, to long swoon-worthy stretches of coastline punctuated by magnificent hidden bays and chic marinas, and idyllic national parks with uninhabited islands, antique architectures, and long chains of waterfalls to explore.
With various crew and boat options available, it's entirely possible to fine-tune your luxury Gulet charter to your exact tastes, opting either for a classic sailing experience with the help of a full crew or just a skipper, or a more laidback motor boat experience, ideal for days spent taking in the sights from the deck. A fully skippered gulet charter opens up your options for adventure, with route planning from an expert skipper elevated by their local knowledge and sailing expertise, while a bareboat gulet charter offers unprecedented privacy and the freedom to sail the Adriatic at your own pace, designing every facet of your adventure.
A Croatia gulet charter is inherently luxurious, a private charter with beautiful ensuite cabins furnished to the highest of standards, spacious deck and living areas with plenty of sunbathing and dining room, and a professional crew to look after your every need. The comfortable accommodation below deck often includes a wonderful master cabin to maximise the primary guests' comfort and relaxation when on board.
Head-turning exteriors to provide a chorus line of gasps when dropping anchor in glittering marinas like Hvar and Trogir. Due to their size, Gulet charters are particularly well-suited to large groups of more than ten guests and they can easily accommodate water toys facilities such as jet ski, kayaks and wakeboards.
Charter Gulets in Croatia
Popular Croatian Gulet Charter Destinations
Your Croatia Gulet holiday will likely start in the heart of the country in the charming Split region. Explore the ancient Diocletian's Palace, the warren of ancient streets filled with cafes, sights and restaurants, before walking along the picturesque seafront to the modern marina. Charter a luxury gulet in Split and the vast collection of islands and islets of Dalmatia become easily accessible, with routes spanning bucolic countryside scented by lavender, quiet island chains forming wild starlit anchorages with excellent diving and exquisite scenic views, and busy cosmopolitan marinas giving ease of access to many of Croatia's most iconic cities and towns.
Sail away from the shores of the Croatian coast and stop at nearby Brač to see the unique, horn-shaped Zlatni Rat beach, before making the short journey towards Hvar to experience one of Croatia's most stunning marinas. Drop anchor off the Pakleni Island group to experience life in Hvar and your Gulet charter will be encased by the delightful glow of the always vibrant old town, giving direct access to numerous bars, boisterous high-season parties and the delicious Dalmatian restaurants hidden in the narrow alleyways that lead to the vast Fortica Fortress: worthy of a hike to top for the staggering views alone.
The Paklenis form long strings of heavenly emeralds atop the horizon, home to numerous coves and wild anchorages, as well as the occasional beach club and restaurant. A highlight is Palmižana on St. Klement, the largest island in the archipelago, with a marina and bay surrounded by thick pine forests and a breathtaking collection of secluded beaches and hard-to-reach coves.
Sail towards the enchanting shores of Korçula for white sand beaches and lush interiors characterised by olive groves, forests and a charismatic old town that, with its towers, gates and ramparts, looks a little like a mini Dubrovnik plucked from the pages of a Croatian fairytale.
For a change of pace, sail your Gulet to the tranquil Kornati archipelago National Park, to explore its striking uninhabited islands and karstic islets, beset with steep rugged cliffs, deep cracks, mysterious caves and chalk-white rock formations, forming a striking contrast to the deep sapphire blues of the Adriatic. Book a gulet with diving equipment to explore a more vibrant underwater world in the reefs that encircle many of the Kornati islands and are home to more than 800 types of marine life.
Sail the rustic shorelines in search of a wild anchorage to experience quiet nights in the company of nature, and eat an expertly crafted dinner on deck under a twinkling blanket of stars. Rise early and sail into delightful Zadar to see its captivating modern art installations on the modern seafront, juxtaposed against impressive Roman ruins and a disarming, lived-in town, filled with layers of Habsburg and Venetian architecture. Charter a Gulet in the north of Croatia to explore ancient cities such as Pula: filled with impressive Roman architecture, and Rijeka: the gateway to the islands, as well as beautiful islands such as Unije with its rustic bays and lush hiking trails, and Dugi Otok, famed for its vineyards and stunning beaches.
Summers throughout the Adriatic region are long and hot and the sailing season in Croatia runs from April to mid-October, with the best weather usually from July to August.
Dubrovnik Region
Chartering a gulet from the "Pearl of the Adriatic", Dubrovnik, offers a luxurious way to explore Croatia's stunning South Dalmatian coast.
From Dubrovnik, you can easily reach the Elaphiti Islands, including Šipan, Lopud, and Koločep, known for their tranquil beaches and charming villages.
Further afield, gulet routes often include Mljet National Park, with its saltwater lakes and lush forests, and the historic island of Korčula, reputedly the birthplace of Marco Polo. Hvar and Vis, famous for vibrant nightlife and secluded coves, are also within reach on multi-day charters.
Split and Central Dalmatia
Split, located in Central Dalmatia and home to the UNESCO-listed Diocletian's Palace, is a historic city that blends Roman heritage with vibrant modern life, serving as a major hub for Adriatic sailing.
From its bustling harbour, guests onboard a gulet charter can quickly reach Brač, famous for the white-pebble Zlatni Rat beach and crystal-clear waters ideal for water sports.
Hvar, known for its lavender fields, lively nightlife, and elegant architecture, is another top destination just a few hours away by gulet or sailboat. Further out lies Vis, a more secluded island prized for its unspoiled nature, Blue Cave on nearby Biševo, and authentic local cuisine.
Split’s central location makes it a perfect launch point for exploring Croatia’s incredible islands while immersing in centuries of history.
Kornati Islands
Kornati National Park is a breathtaking archipelago of over 80 karstic islets and reefs, renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and raw natural beauty. This protected area offers a haven for sailing and diving enthusiasts, with underwater caves, vibrant marine life, and calm anchorages perfect for exploration. Its limited infrastructure (no hotels, few restaurants, and minimal human development) preserves the untouched character that makes it so captivating.
A gulet charter through the Kornati Islands promises serenity, seclusion, and a deep connection with nature, far from the bustle of more populated routes. For those seeking an authentic, tranquil sailing experience in one of Croatia’s most pristine environments, Kornati is an unforgettable highlight.
Istria and Kvarner Gulf
Istria and the Kvarner Gulf offer a distinct gulet charter experience, marked by a unique fusion of Croatian and Italian culture reflected in the architecture, cuisine, and coastal charm.
Picturesque towns like Rovinj and Poreč boast colourful facades, Venetian-style harbours, and ancient Roman sites, while Pula is home to the impressive Roman amphitheater, the Pula Arena.
The region’s lush green hills and serene atmosphere create a striking contrast to the rocky Dalmatian coastline, offering a more tranquil and intimate sailing journey. Islands such as Cres, Lošinj, and Krk enchant guests with their hidden coves, aromatic pine forests, and crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
For gulet charters seeking a quieter, more culturally nuanced route, Istria and the Kvarner Gulf provide an enriching and peaceful alternative.
